Neglect definition

Neglect is defined in government guidance as “persistent failure to meet a child’s basic needs to the extent that it is has a serious effect on the child’s health or development”. This can be either the child’s physical or emotional needs.

Neglect may involve a parent failing to:

• Provide enough food and clothing
• Provide a proper home. This can include excluding a child from home or abandoning them.
• Protect a child from physical or emotional danger
• Provide proper supervision. This can include leaving a child in the care of someone who cannot provide adequate care.
• Take a child to the doctor or dentist when they need to go. Or failing to follow medical advice.
• Respond to a child’s basic emotional needs.
  Ensure their child is given an education.
• Neglect can occur before a child is born. For example, if a mother misuses drugs during pregnancy.